Indonesia considers Bali for next phase of financial centre plan
Regulations are being finalised as the government looks to expand Bali’s economy beyond tourism, Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto said.
Indonesia is considering Bali for a second phase of financial centre development, following an initial stage in Jakarta, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto said at a forum in Badung, Bali.
Speaking at the International Forum for Government Credit Programs, Airlangga said the government had discussed Bali’s prospects with state-owned enterprises. Regulations for the proposed centre have been drafted and are undergoing finalisation, he said.
Airlangga said global economic uncertainty offered Indonesia an opportunity to attract financial activities, citing the country’s safe and comfortable environment. He linked the Bali proposal to efforts to reduce the province’s economic dependence on tourism.
Other government initiatives in the province include the Sanur Health Special Economic Zone and the Kura-Kura Bali Special Economic Zone. Sanur is intended to provide international-standard healthcare and attract medical visitors, while Kura-Kura Bali is being developed to encourage investment and economic activity.
The minister also identified digital businesses and local talent development as potential sources of growth, alongside finance, healthcare and education. Bali Governor Wayan Koster welcomed the financial centre proposal and described the province as a strategic location for it.
